The primary structure is comprised of two rows of parallel ‘H’ frames which are spanned by secondary beams. This structure frames a series of classrooms, with the secondary beams projecting past the frame to carry a walkway. Externally the beams penetrate the building skin to form a series of external walkways. The use of timber has enabled continuous structural members to extend from interior to exterior, without the need for a thermal break.

The timber is untreated internally and has only minimal applied protection externally. In order to avoid a costly maintenance regime the frame has been detailed in such a way that it will protect itself from of the damaging effects of water. Each beam and column, where external, is covered with a capping of Iroko hardwood. This not only protects the beams from the damaging effects of standing water but also includes a drip detail to reduce the amount of water running down the face of the structure.

Energy:

The main sustainable component of the building is the timber frame – a highly sustainable and renewable resource in comparison to steel or concrete. Passive environmental systems include a series of top-lit voids inside the protective wall that bring diffused natural light down into the teaching spaces. The facade includes openable vents that act as a one-sided natural ventilation system during the day, and at night, a two-sided system operates via the voids to cool the building overnight. In addition, towers located above the vertical circulation zones extract unwanted hot air.